Combi-Road is a new concept for container transport. It operates autonomous vehicles on a separate track to tow container carriers between large distribution sites and transfer systems. An advanced control system is required to manage the transportation process and to guarantee a safe and reliable operation. By the end of 1996, the first development phase was completed. It resulted in a full scale prototype of the autonomous vehicle on a test track of 200 metres length. Apart from extensive technical tests, a number of feasibility studies were performed about the logistical concept, the exchange locations and the implementation aspects. All results clearly indicate that Combi-Road is an ideal transport mode for containers in congested areas. In 1997, a definition study was performed to define the next step. This focused on testing the control of multiple vehicles on a pilot track of several kilometres and the exchange procedures involved. Furthermore, it deals with the organization and implementation of the first operational stage. Combi-Road is on the move and should be operational in 2004.
Samenvatting